This scheme applies to people who have been assessed as needing to go into a care/nursing home permanently.

Wakefield  Council along with all other local authorities is required to assess a person’s ability to contribute towards the cost of their care and maintenance when they live in accommodation provided under Part III of the National Assistance Act, 1948. 

Your contribution depends on your weekly income and any other assets that you may have. If you have a property or land this affects how we work out what you must pay.

From 1 October 2001 the Government introduced a scheme that allows you to put off the sale of your home during your lifetime.  A resident can also take advantage of the scheme if they want to sell their property but it may take some time.  The council will pay the costs that would have been met by the sale of the property until such time that the property is sold.  This scheme is called the Deferred Payments Scheme.

If you wish to take advantage of the scheme you will need to agree to the council placing a legal charge on the property.  The council will then pay the costs for accommodation to the home, which would have been met from the sale of your property.  This money will then be reclaimed when the property is eventually sold.

Provided that you meet the criteria, you can take advantage of the Deferred Payments Scheme. Further information is set out in the booklets called 'Paying For Your Care in a Home – The Council’s Deferred Payments Scheme' and a 'Guide to Entering a Care Home' You can get copies from either your Social Worker or Care Co-ordinator or telephone 01924 305931.

For more information see 'also in' or contact Social Care Direct.